Tips for Freshmen Moving On Campus this Fall
When I moved to Chicago in 2021, I had a relatively easy time moving in all my stuff. I coordinated with my roommate and we decided that she would move in the day after me so there wasn’t too much chaos happening in such a small space. I lived in Belden-Racine, now LeCompte Hall, and I loved it but, every dorm building is special in its own way. However, all dorms pretty much have the same rules, so my first tip is to check the housing website and check dorm rules and amenities. Familiarize yourself with the dorm rules and amenities before moving in so you know what to expect and what is allowed in your living space. Reach out to your roommate before moving in and discuss who will bring what items and get to know each other’s preferences and habits. This will help to avoid duplicating items like microwaves, mini-fridges, and other large items.
Don’t forget the essentials, obviously. Remember to bring items like bedding, towels, toiletries, and any prescription medications you might need. Bring some personal touches and decorate your dorm room with a few personal items like lighting, posters, or fake plants— there’s tons of inspiration on Pinterest and TikTok! Me and my roommate used our flex dollars (Blue Bucks) to get tons of snacks from ETC (the campus convenience store in the Student Center) to keep stocked in our room for ourselves and friends. Oh, and keep important documents organized: Have copies of important documents like your ID, health insurance card, and contact information for emergency contacts stored in a safe and accessible place.
Move-in day is a great opportunity to make new friends. Be open and friendly to those around you, as many other freshmen are likely feeling just as nervous and excited. Expect some hiccups and be patient. Things may not go exactly as planned, but staying flexible will help you adapt to any situation!
By following these tips, you’ll be better prepared to start your college journey in the dorms and create a comfortable living space for yourself as you begin this exciting new chapter in your life.
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